Frequently Asked Questions

Please reach out to us by phone or at freedomtomove@patriotpt.com if you cannot find an answer to your question.

What is Patriot Physical Therapy?

Patriot Physical Therapy is an out-patient physical therapy clinic owned and operated by Clinical Doctors of Physical Therapy that provides manual therapy-based personalized outstanding care to help patients achieve their goals.

Where is Patriot Physical Therapy located?

Patriot Physical Therapy is at 7003 Shallowford Rd, Suite 102 in Chattanooga, TN. We are located in the Shallowford Hills Professional Building, the white corner building of Shallowford and Center Street. We have drive-up and drop-off options and parking in the front and rear of the building. You can access parking from Center Street or Shallowford Road. Our building is wheelchair accessible. Our office is on the first floor and is wheelchair accessible and a has a wheelchair accessible bathroom.

What services does Patriot Physical Therapy offer?

Patriot Physical Therapy offers a variety of services including manual therapy, IASTM (Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization), dry needling, therapeutic exercise, neuromuscular re-education, and modalities such as ultrasound, laser therapy and electrical stimulation. We offer pain mitigation strategies, vestibular rehab and balance training, postural training, post-stroke recovery rehab, pre and post-surgical rehab, conservative non-surgical rehabilitation, work conditioning, ergonomic consultation and more!

What should I bring to my first physical therapy appointment?

Please come having already completed the electronic intake form sent to you via email through our Prompt electronic medical records software system. It's quick and easy to complete! Please have your insurance card(s) and ID, plus a method of payment if applicable for self- pay, co-payments or co-insurance. We will identify authorization status prior to your first visit with your insurance provider. Our intake forms provide more information about this.

What should I wear to my first physical therapy appointment?

Depending on your treatment area, wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing, shorts or pants. Bring an up-to-date medication list, prescription glasses, hearing aids, cane, walker, wheelchair, and braces, when applicable. If being treated for vestibular problems, wear comfortable, supportive shoes with a back for safety. Slippers or flip-flops are not recommended. If we need to expose a treatment area, we always use proper draping technique and have privacy screens.

What insurances are accepted?

We are in network and accept Medicare, Worker's Compensation, Aetna, BC/BS of Tennessee, Tenn Care and Blue Care (Medicaid), American Specialty Health/Cigna, United Healthcare, Personal Injury Lien Agreements through an attorney and Cash pay. For VA and Humana we can see you out-of-network. We are a TRICARE-certified provider as an out-of-network provider for Humana Military. For insurances we are not credentialed and/or contracted with we are considered an out of network provider and we can submit to insurance for you or provide you a superbill to submit to your insurance company for possible reimbursement. Reimbursement will vary based on your specific insurance provider and your out of network deductible (this works similar to in-network insurance). Cash pay clients welcome with discounted care plan packages available now! All major credit cards, government credit cards, FSA/HSA cards and cash accepted.

How can I determine my Insurance Benefits for Physical Therapy?

1. We will do our best to determine your coverage in advance of your first visit. You can also call the customer service number on the back of your insurance card. Speak to a customer service representative directly.

2. Ask the customer service representative to quote your general physical therapy benefits. The term "rehabilitation benefits" is often used to include physical, occupational and speech therapies, and possibly even massage therapy.

3. Make sure the customer service representative is clear in understanding if you are seeing an in network provider or non-preferred provider/out of network provider if you have an insurance plan that we do not yet have a partnership with. We will submit out of network claims for you.

Do I need a referral to come to Patriot Physical Therapy?

No, you do not need a referral to come to Patriot Physical Therapy. Tennessee is a Direct Access State! However, some insurance plans may require a referral or pre-authorization for coverage. If you wish to be treated at Patriot Physical Therapy, but we don't have in-network privileges with your insurance provider, we can see you out-of-network.

Why Should You Choose Physical Therapy?

Shoulder Complex Injuries are treated here

Physical Therapy vs. Chiropractic Care

Physical therapy and chiropractic care are both valuable healthcare services, but they have different focuses and approaches. Here are several reasons why individuals might choose physical therapy over chiropractic care:

1. Holistic Approach:

Physical Therapy (PT): Physical therapists often take a holistic approach, addressing not only musculoskeletal issues but also considering factors such as overall health, lifestyle, and functional limitations. Making lasting changes often reduces or eliminates pain and decreases risks of future health problems. Physical therapists can mobilize joints anywhere in the body and then support the joints so that they remain functional.
Chiropractic Care: Chiropractors primarily focus on the spine and nervous system.

2. Evidence-Based Practice:

Physical Therapy (PT): Physical therapy is rooted in evidence-based practice, meaning that treatment approaches are supported by scientific research. PT interventions are continually evolving based on the latest research findings, ensuring that patients receive effective and up-to-date care.
Chiropractic Care: While some chiropractic treatments have demonstrated effectiveness for specific conditions, the field has been criticized for lacking consistent scientific evidence across all practices.

3. Comprehensive Assessment:

Physical Therapy (PT): Physical therapists conduct a comprehensive assessment to identify the root causes of musculoskeletal problems. They evaluate movement patterns, muscle imbalances, and functional limitations, allowing for targeted and individualized treatment plans.
Chiropractic Care: Chiropractors often focus on spinal adjustments to address misalignments (subluxations) in the spine. While this can provide relief for certain conditions, it may not address the broader range of factors contributing to musculoskeletal issues. Chiropractors often take x-rays to locate abnormalities, but more commonly, soft tissue injuries around the joint that are not visible on x-ray are not addressed.

4. Exercise Prescription:

Physical Therapy (PT): Physical therapists commonly prescribe specific exercises to improve strength, flexibility, and overall function. These exercises are tailored to the individual's needs and are a crucial component of the rehabilitation process.
Chiropractic Care: Chiropractors may recommend exercises, but the emphasis is often on manual adjustments. Physical therapy tends to place a greater emphasis on therapeutic exercises and functional movement in addition to manual therapy and modalities to address the injured or compromised joints and soft tissue .

5. Functional Restoration:

Physical Therapy (PT): The goal of physical therapy is often to restore functional movement and improve overall quality of life. Physical therapists work towards enabling individuals to perform daily activities with greater ease and efficiency.
Chiropractic Care: Chiropractors typically focus on spinal adjustments and alignment, which may not directly address functional limitations or improve overall movement patterns.

6. Collaboration with Other Healthcare Professionals:

Physical Therapy (PT): Physical therapists often collaborate with other healthcare professionals, such as physicians, orthopedic specialists, and occupational therapists, to provide comprehensive care.
Chiropractic Care: Chiropractors may work independently, and their approach may not always be integrated into a broader healthcare plan.

7. Enabling the Individual:

Physical Therapy (PT): Physical therapy treats the individual by including education to enable the client to complete a plan of care and independently maintain the positive outcomes of the treatment.
Chiropractic Care: Chiropractors promote a Chiropractic Lifestyle to keep a client continuously returning for adjustments.

Learn More

Frequently Asked Questions

Why Should You Choose Physical Therapy?

Physical Therapy vs. Chiropractic Care

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